5 Natural Remedies for MS Nerve Pain in the Legs and Feet

There are many medical conditions that can cause nerve pain in the legs and feet, including chronic ones like multiple sclerosis (MS). Pain, unfortunately, is par for the course with MS. But with the right treatments — both natural and prescription — you’ll likely be able to find some relief.

Why MS causes pain

The nerve pain that people with MS experience can be caused directly by the disease or by related illnesses, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.

When it’s a direct result of MS, the mechanism is through nerve damage. MS attacks the myelin sheath. This is the natural protective covering of your brain, spinal cord, and entire nervous system. Coupled with the development of lesions and plaques in the nervous system, this can lead to pain in the legs and throughout the body.

MS also makes movement and gait, or the process of walking, difficult. As nerve damage worsens, people with MS are likely to experience stiffness and aching.

MS pain can vary from dull and sporadic to stabbing, severe, and constant. In severe cases, small triggers like a cold breeze or uncomfortable clothing can cause pain in people with MS.

At-home solutions

Managing pain usually involves a combination of multiple techniques, including prescribed medications and home remedies. Some of the following treatments may aid in pain relief:

1. Warm compress or warm bath

According to Barbara Rodgers, a nutrition consultant who also has MS, too much heat can exacerbate symptoms. A hot bath or hot compress may make matters worse. However, warm compresses can provide comfort and relief.

2. Massage

A massage can serve several purposes, stimulating blood flow in the body and gently relieving muscle pain and tension while promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. For people with MS, this relaxation is important and often difficult to come by.

3. Therapy

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, stress, depression, and anxiety can make people with MS more likely to report pain. Managing these stressors and psychological conditions can reduce the pain they once aggravated. Support groups and working with a therapist are just a few methods to lessen these psychological factors.

4. Nutritional supplements

Nerve pain can be caused and exacerbated by certain deficiencies. Your doctor can help you determine if you may be deficient in:

Your doctor can assess whether a supplement would be right for you. Rodgers also suggests Wobenzym, a supplement that’s intended to help stiffness and soreness.

5. Dietary changes

Frequently, pain and illness are related to an unhealthy diet. Rodgers says that people with MS should take a critical look at what they’re eating and consider eliminating common culprits when it comes to nerve pain. These might include corn, dairy, gluten, soy, and sugar.

The takeaway

Living with a condition like MS can be difficult. The pain isn’t just hard to cope with mentally, but it can impact your qualify of life. Speak with your doctor about the best multipronged approach for you.